Archives for December 2015

“Mr. Hollywood! If ever there was a quintessential figure, someone audiences could rally around as both hero and rogue, it was Doug. He had the magic, the one that propelled him to great heights. Of course, that he had control over his pictures was paramount. He did not need to kowtow to studio demands or act in simpering productions, stale pieces of bread, even crusts, which is what I would liken some of the product of those days to be. And Doug was a really nice guy, funny, witty, always with a sly sense of humor. His physical prowess obviously delighted viewers, made him, for a while, top box office. And he picked his projects well, wished me all the best with “The Eagle” and “Son of the Sheik” once I had joined the United Artists stable of stars.

We were a bit competitive physically, had to show off to each other once in a while, our abilities with riding and sports. I have fond memories of Doug, and how our careers were, in a way, complimentary. My favorite Fairbanks film was “The Thief of Baghdad.” An incredibly impressive work of art and it was fun to watch!” ~ Rudolph Valentino